In EchoLIVE.ie: Five steps to help you do your bit for global sustainability in 2019, by Dr. Claire O’Neill UCC.

Step 5. Focus on your Food

Our food is inextricably linked to all the previous steps – waste food, using too much energy and water for production and cooking, and the multiple journeys food takes by air, sea and road. Being mindful of all of this, you can take some steps to reduce some of the negative impacts. Waste food continues to be an issue in Ireland with over 1 million tonnes of food wasted every year, with a third coming directly from households.

Buying less overall and buying loose fruit and vegetables may allow you to lessen the waste that you may have from multipacks.

Freeze food such as fish and meat so that you can defrost as you need it, an easy way to ensure it doesn’t end up in the bin. Juicing or making soup from vegetables that are turning is a good way of reducing food waste too.

Buying local produce, whenever possible, is an easy way to ensure that your grocery shop is not contributing to unnecessary food miles while at the same time supporting the local economy. Several farmers or local food providers offer an online ordering service or box scheme, with regular pick-up points or deliveries.

Of course, one of the most effective ways of reducing your carbon footprint is to reduce your consumption of meat. Shops and restaurants are increasingly offering food choices that are plant-based. One easy way to start integrating more plant-based foods into your diet is to get on board with ‘Meatless Mondays’. More